the 67 biennial convention of the unity of the brethren...

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The 67th Biennial Convention of the Unity of the Brethren

Convention Minutes JULY 6-8, 2017

TEMPLE BRETHREN CHURCH

Thursday, July 6, 2017

A dinner for pastors, their spouses, the Executive Committee, and missionaries

was hosted by the Temple Brethren Church. This was followed by the Pastor’s

Meeting. At this meeting, Rev. James Hejl was elected Pastor to the Pastors.

Friday, July 7, 2017

Registration was held from 7:30-8:30am. Breakfast was provided by the Temple

Brethren Church.

Total Attendance: 152

Voting Members: 81

Pastors: 22 Rev. Charles Amos, Rev. Whitney Amos, Rev. Linda Chandler, Rev. Tim Chaplin,

Rev. Joe Emerson, Rev. Adolfo Gonzalez, Rev. Michael Groseclose, Rev. Jim

Heckman, Rev. James Hejl, Rev. Curtis Holland, Pastor David Johnson, Rev.

Lawrence Junek, Rev. Dr. Larry Koslovsky, Rev. Dr. Mark Labaj, Rev. Denise

Mikeska, Rev. Vanessa Mitchell, Rev. Al Newby, Rev. Joseph Polasek, Rev. Kay

Polasek, Rev. Mark Sebek, Rev. Thomas Tallas, Rev. Dr. Jerry Terrill

Executive Officers: 5 President-Kent Laza (BCS), 1st VP-Rev. Mark Sebek (counted with Pastors), 2nd VP-

Rev. Michael Groseclose (counted with Pastors), Secretary-Angie Hairrell (Snook),

Financial Secretary-Liz Ripple (Fayetteville), Treasurer-Harvey Treybig (Industry),

Lay Alternate-Wiley Marx (Ocker)

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Lay Members: 16 BCS-Valerie Sebek, Caldwell-Dr. Ron Dusek, Crosby-Debbie Clark, Dime Box-

Roberta Brinkman, Fayetteville-Sandra Stepan, Houston-Dorothy Hinson,

Nelsonville-Janell Zettel, Ocker-Taylor Brinkley, Seaton-Leonard Mikeska, Snook-

Yvonne Kovar, Taylor-Sidney Srnensky, Temple-Kellie Chaplin, Wall-Robert Berrie,

Wesley-Mark Surovik, West-Roy Janek, Westheimer-Leroy Parthum

Delegates: 33 Austin-Cade Chandler, BCS-Dawn Marie Baletka, Caldwell-Lynette Urbanovsky,

Crosby-Tillman Clark, Dime Box-Dorothy Jean Davis, Fayetteville-Jerry Dove,

Industry-Lynwood Ullrich, Nelsonville-Grace Fick, Brett Mikeska, Dorothy

Milberger, New Tabor-Christine Campbell, Connie Surovik, Ocker-Janet

Hoelscher, Chelsey Pierce, Sharon Marek, Rosenberg-Mary Jane Kocurek,

Seaton-Bob Haisler, Doug Rowald, Snook-Justin Lewis, Taylor-Arnold Cuba,

Virginia Grow, Henry Ripple, Marie Ann Ripple, Stanley Zamorsky, Temple-Grace

Labaj, Wall-Sandy Dusek, Charlie Farmer, Lance LaBedelle, Rick Weise, Wesley-JT

Grounds, West-Sandy Borrenphol, Mike James, Westheimer-Betty Parthum

Committee Chairs: 5 PRC-Jon Farrow, Christian Education-Tami Laza, Hus Encampment Trustees-Mark

Olsen, Foreign Mission-David Miller, Home Missions-Martha Dove, Grants &

Bequests-Leroy Parthum (counted above)

Nonvoting Members: 71

Missionaries: 8 (10) Rob and Anne Theissen, Pavel and Stanya Kozac, Carolyn Groseclose, Michael

Woo, Phil and Eunice Raiford (plus their two children)

Interim Pastor: 1 Rev. Brad Herridge

Alternates: 5 Caldwell-Martha Huffman, Nelsonville-Beverly Mikeska, Rosenberg-Alice

Kocurek, Snook-Mary Polasek, Brad Hairrell

Guests & Volunteers: 55

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Friday Morning Worship Service (8:30-9:30am) The Opening Worship Service began at 8:30am. The Temple Brethren Church

Choir gave the Call to Worship, followed by the Invocation. The congregation

sand Praise Him! Praise Him!, Wonderful Grace of Jesus, and How Great is Our

God, led by Norman Hluchan and accompanied by Valeria Miller and Jane

Debenport. Special music was provided by Norman Hluchan and Jon Farrow.

The message, entitled Limitless, was given by Rev. Tim Chaplin, based on the

Convention Verse, Matthew 19:26. Communion was administered by Rev.

Michael Groseclose and Rev. Mark Sebek. The congregation then sang To God

Be the Glory and Rev. Chaplin gave the benediction. The service closed with

the congregation singing Standing on the Promises.

Welcome (9:30-10:00am) A Welcome was provided by Unity President, Kent Laza and Temple Brethren

Church Board of Elder’s President, Gayle Farrow. President Kent Laza introduced

the Synodical Executive Committee and thanked the Temple Brethren Church

for hosting. President Laza provided an overview of the Convention schedule,

which was different from previous Conventions. The focus this year was on

educational sessions with one business session on Saturday. At several points

during the day, attendees would be able to choose between various

presentations. President Laza introduced Rev. Betsy Miller, President of the

Northern Province of the Moravian Church. She brought greetings from this

group. Jon Farrow announced how the Convention proceedings could be

accessed live through Facebook.

General Session 1

Catechism Revision & Christian Education (10:00-11:00am) Chair of the Christian Board of Education, Tami Laza, presented the work of the

Christian Board of Education. A needs inventory was sent to all churches. The

areas where help was most needed included Confirmation and teaching the

Catechism and materials for instruction in PreConfirmation. This led to the call for

the Catechism to be updated.

Chair Tami Laza and the Board identified another need in the area of Christian

Education. Every congregation utilizes different materials for their children’s

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programs, sometimes different curriculums within the same church. Sunday

School teachers, Confirmation teachers, and camp staff have noticed that our

kids were not as biblically sound and literate as we would like. The members of

the Board of Christian Education reviewed 21 commercial Sunday School

Curriculums on 20 different characteristics. The results of this review were

provided in the Convention Book, pages 76-78. A large print version was also

provided to all Convention Attendees. Congregations and Sunday Schools were

encouraged to use this tool to find curriculum for all age groups (babies –

adults) that meets the church’s unique needs.

Chair Laza reported that the next goal of the Board of Christian Education is to

support the development of a Catechism Companion.

Rev. Dr. Larry Koslovsky and Rev. James Hejl served as members of the 2017

Catechism Revision Committee. Rev. Dr. Koslovsky presented the new

Catechism. Electronic copies were sent to all Convention Members before the

Convention. Pastors received a copy approximately one week prior to

Convention. He shared some of the history of the Catechism and how it came

to its present form. Revs. Koslovsky and Hejl referred to the 1523 Catechism

translation and took a few questions from there. Goals of this revision were

matching the questions and answers to relevant Bible verses. In previous

versions, not all answers were related to supporting Scripture. Scripture

quotations were taken from the New Revised Standard Version of the Bible

(1989). There was some rephrasing of questions and answers.

The Catechism was also restructured. Section 2: Foundations of Brethren Belief

and Practice is new. This section of the Catechism lays the foundation of what

we believe. The remainder of the Catechism is divided into three major

headings: Essential to Salvation, Ministering to Salvation, and Incidental to

Salvation. This is a system for understanding faith and salvation.

Essential to Salvation is God is a real God, and humanity responds in faith, love,

and hope. This was an Essential in the original faith. This portion includes six

sections: God, God the Father, God the Son, God the Holy Spirit, Humanity and

Sin, and Salvation.

Ministering to Salvation (ministerials to the early Brethren) are tools that help us

grow in faith. This portion includes three sections: The Bible, The Church, and

Sacraments.

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Incidentals to Salvation are important, but not Essentials. Rev. Dr. Koslovsky

shared we often mix up the ministerials and the essentials. This portion includes 5

sections: Rites of the Unity of the Brethren, The Christian Life, Obligations of a

Church Member and Future Things. Rev. Dr. Koslovsky reported some work was

done on future things, but this is still a mystery.

Rev. Dr. Koslovsky shared that most of us have seen the catechism as solid rock.

However, the writers of the 1523 printing realized immediately it could be

changed. He learned that this is a living document. Revs. Koslovsky and Hejl

reported it was humbling to be a part of such a great tradition that speaks to

the basic understanding of what we believe.

Because you cannot reference every relevant Scripture or explain everything, a

Catechism Companion will be created. Revs. Koslovsky and Hejl will write this

document to expand on the Biblical and the historical understanding. The goal

is to have this document completed by the 2019 Convention.

The floor was opened for questions: Rev. Kay Polasek gave God the glory for this

work and thanked Revs. Koslovsky and Hejl. One underlying belief of the

Brethren is humanity’s response to a limitless God! This document helps do that.

Questions were raised regarding the format. It will be available electronically

and in hard copies. It was suggested that printed copies be larger than the

present Catechism. Eventually, the Companion and Catechism will be printed

together.

Grace Labaj suggested the entire membership should go through this new

version of the Catechism and all agreed. Rev. Hejl shared that the vision is for

every pastor to use this Catechism to instruct the entire congregation.

Tami Laza stated this could be a great Bible Study and encourage adults to

grow in their understanding.

For confirmation classes, congregations voiced a need for support. They need

adult leadership and/or a pastor. One idea shared was combining churches for

joint confirmation classes. An example of this was shared by Rev. Hejl. Wall,

Taylor, Nelsonville/Wesley confirmation classes held a joint retreat at the Hus

Encampment. Students worked through certain topics, such as what is really

essential and nonessential and how love permeates all, together. They also

made plaques with the Unity Motto. On Sunday morning, the group traveled to

Wesley and had worship in the historic church. Rev. Tommy Tallas of Wall shared

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it was a blessing for all. Rev. Hejl hoped to do it again, possibly every two years.

None of the churches had the right numbers to do it this year.

The idea was shared that many churches can use and take advantage of this

type of programming. It deepens relationships and builds a deep sense of

fellowship. It is something well worth repeating. It was shared that this might not

be possible on a Unity wide basis, but regions could accomplish this without

much difficulty.

President Kent Laza reported that in business session on Saturday we will have a

motion to act on the revised Catechism so congregations can begin using it

with their children.

Breakout Sessions (11:00am-12:00pm)

Breakout Session 1: Camp Review and Panel Discussion This session was held in the Sanctuary.

Youth Director Jennifer Chervenka introduced Camp Directors, which each

provided a report on their camp.

A panel of three young adult members (Krystal Dusek, Jordan Eilers, and Taylor

Brinkley) answered questions posed by Jenn regarding their activity in the

church, their ideas for the church, and why they believe many of their friends do

not remain in the Brethren Church.

Breakout Session 2: Foreign Missions This session was held in the fellowship hall.

During this session, all our missionaries reported on their work.

• Carolyn Groseclose-New Day Orphanage in Zambia

• Rob and Anne Theissen-Southern Mexico

• Rev. Pavel and Stanya Kozac-Czech Republic

• Phil and Eunice Raiford-Oaxaca, Mexico

• Michael Woo-China

Music (1:00-1:30pm) Music was provided by Jeremy Wentrcek.

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Breakout Sessions (1:30pm-2:30pm)

Breakout Session 3: Technology for our Churches Technology in churches was in the sanctuary.

Jon Farrow talked about the technology they use in Temple and how the

convention is being streamed. Videos will continue to be available on the Unity

Convention 2017 Facebook page. Seth Vance from Church Systems Design

spoke about the technology available to churches.

Breakout Session 4: Home Missions Home Missions met in the fellowship hall.

An update on the Cade Lake Chapel and In God’s Hands ministry was given. A

written report can be found in the Convention Book beginning on page 109.

General Session 2

Moving our Unity Forward – Regional discussions about cooperative efforts between churches (2:30-3:30pm) President Kent Laza stated that these discussions were started at the Spring

Synodical meeting. It was requested to continue the conversations at the

Convention. Discussion leaders were named for each regional group.

Churches were divided into five regions: Brazos Valley, Brenham, Temple, South

Texas, and Taylor.

Brazos Valley: BCS, Cade Lake Chapel, Caldwell, Dime Box, New Tabor, Snook

Brenham: Fayetteville, Industry, Nelsonville, Wesley

Temple: Buckholts, Ocker, Seaton, Temple, West

South Texas: Crosby, Good Shepherd, Houston, Pasadena, Rosenberg,

Westheimer

Taylor: Austin, Granger, Taylor, Wall

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General Session 3

Hus Encampment Master Plan & Capital Improvement Program A presentation was made by Mark Olsen, Chair of the Hus Encampment Board

of Trustees, and Rick Weise, Member of the Hus Encampment Board of Trustees.

The presentation included an inspiring video on the camping program and a list

of upgrades for the camp facilities. A copy of the report can be found in the

Convention Book beginning on page 85.

The floor was opened for questions.

• What would be the impact of the project on camper fees? It is too early

in the project to determine and largely depends on fundraising. The

Board is committed to making camp affordable to any who want to

attend. Priority #1.

• What types of building materials will be used? David Dusek helped with

design and materials are still to be determined. They will certainly use

durable products, and products that have lower maintenance (less

repainting).

• Will the facilities be ADA compliant? Yes, everything will be ADA

accessible.

• Has the Board considered other uses of the Camp? The desire is for the

facility to serve the entire Unity with all ages comfortable during an

overnight stay. There is the potential of making it available for other

Christian programming. The Unity is the first priority.

• Will there be a need for Full time staffing? That is not developed at this

point, but not out of the question.

• What is the timeline? Other than septic work which is in progress, not yet.

It depends on financial support and Convention forming the committees.

• How will this project be funded? The Synodical Committee will direct a lot

of this. The Capital Campaign is one thing. Portions of project may be

done with volunteers. The Building Committee would work on that. There

are some existing funds. The septic work is being done from existing funds

($60,000). $120,000 is currently available to the Board of Trustees.

Music (5:00-5:30pm) The attendees gathered in the sanctuary to participate in praise and worship

with song.

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Evening Worship & Memorial Service (6:30-7:30pm) A worship and memorial service was held to remember three pastors who had

recently passed away: Rev. Gordon Hejl, Rev. Milton Maly, and Rev. Albert

Michalik. Worship was led by Rev. Tommy Tallas and Rev. James Hejl. Norman

Hluchan served as song leader and Valeria Miller served as Pianist.

The service was opened with an invocation and the congregation sang Sing

Praises to God Who Reigns Above. Special music was provided by Jon Farrow.

Each pastor was then remembered. Remembering Brother Gordon was Rev.

James Hejl. Remembering Brother Milton was Rev. Michael Groseclose.

Remembering Brother Albert was Rev. Dr. Larry Koslovsky. Each shared poignant

and joyous memories of these men of God. The congregation then shared a

responsive reading of Remembrance, Thanks, and Aspiration, followed by

singing Shine, Jesus, Shine. All former Hus School Students then sang Hoj věrni v

boj, directed by Rev. Tommy Tallas and accompanied by pianist Donna Tallas.

The service closed with a benediction.

Saturday, July 8, 2017

Breakfast was provided by the Temple Brethren Church.

Total Attendance: 145

Voting Members: 82

Pastors: 23 Rev. Charles Amos, Rev. Whitney Amos, Rev. Linda Chandler, Rev. Tim Chaplin,

Rev. Joe Emerson, Rev. Adolfo Gonzalez, Rev. Michael Groseclose, Rev. Jim

Heckman, Rev. James Hejl, Rev. Curtis Holland, Pastor David Johnson, Rev.

Lawrence Junek, Rev. Dr. Larry Koslovsky, Rev. Dr. Mark Labaj, Rev. Denise

Mikeska, Rev. Vanessa Mitchell, Rev. Al Newby, Rev. Joseph Polasek, Rev. Kay

Polasek, Rev. Mark Sebek, Rev. Thomas Tallas, Rev. Dr. Jerry Terrill, Rev. Larry

Zabcik

Executive Officers: 5 President-Kent Laza (BCS), 1st VP-Rev. Mark Sebek (counted with Pastors), 2nd VP-

Rev. Michael Groseclose (counted with Pastors), Secretary-Angie Hairrell (Snook),

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Financial Secretary-Liz Ripple (Fayetteville), Treasurer-Harvey Treybig (Industry),

Lay Alternate-Wiley Marx (Ocker)

Lay Members: 16 BCS-Valerie Sebek, Caldwell-Dr. Ron Dusek, Crosby-Debbie Clark, Dime Box-

Roberta Brinkman, Fayetteville-Sandra Stepan, Houston-Dorothy Hinson,

Nelsonville-Janell Zettel, Ocker-Taylor Brinkley, Seaton-Leonard Mikeska, Snook-

Yvonne Kovar, Taylor-Sidney Srnensky, Temple-Kellie Chaplin, Wall-Robert Berrie,

Wesley-Mark Surovik, West-Roy Janek, Westheimer-Leroy Parthum

Delegates: 33 Austin-Cade Chandler, BCS-Dawn Marie Baletka, Caldwell-Martha Huffman,

Crosby-Tillman Clark, Dime Box-Dorothy Jean Davis, Fayetteville-Jerry Dove,

Industry-Lynwood Ullrich, Nelsonville-Grace Fick, Brett Mikeska, Dorothy

Milberger, New Tabor-Christine Campbell, Connie Surovik, Ocker-Janet

Hoelscher, Chelsey Pierce, David Sebek, Rosenberg-Mary Jane Kocurek, Seaton-

Glenn Psencik, Doug Rowald, Snook-Justin Lewis, Taylor-Arnold Cuba, Virginia

Grow, Henry Ripple, Marie Ann Ripple, Stanley Zamorsky, Temple-Grace Labaj,

Wall-Sandy Dusek, Charlie Farmer, Lance LaBedelle, Rick Weise, Wesley-JT

Grounds, West-Sandy Borrenphol, Mike James, Westheimer-Betty Parthum

Committee Chairs: 5 PRC-Jon Farrow, Christian Education-Tami Laza, Hus Encampment Trustees-Mark

Olsen, Foreign Mission-David Miller, Home Missions-Martha Dove, Grants &

Bequests-Leroy Parthum (counted above)

Nonvoting Members: 63

Missionaries: 8 (10) Rob and Anne Theissen, Pavel and Stanya Kozac, Carolyn Groseclose, Michael

Woo, Phil and Eunice Raiford (plus their two children)

Interim Pastor: 1 Rev. Brad Herridge

Alternates: 4 Nelsonville-Beverly Mikeska, Rosenberg-Alice Kocurek, Snook-Mary Polasek, Brad

Hairrell

Guests & Volunteers: 48 Many more joined for the Ordination Service.

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Morning Devotional (8:00-8:30am) Rev. Brad Herridge, Interim Pastor of Ocker Brethren Church provided a

devotional entitled Wasteland.

General Session 4 (8:30-10:00)

Convention Business President Kent Laza called the meeting to order at 8:30 with prayer. He opened

with an explanation of the design of convention…educational, not the typical

committees. This morning business session will allow the Convention Members to

go through the proposed motions.

President Kent Laza presented the Directives from 66th Convention.

1. The development of a Hus Encampment Masterplan. The presentation by

the Hus Encampment Board of Trustees and the Building Committee was

presented yesterday. A motion will be presented later regarding this work.

2. The revision of the Catechism. This was presented on Friday by Revs.

Koslovsky and Hejl. A motion will be presented later regarding this work.

3. The hiring of an Administrative Assistant to serve the Unity. Liz Ripple has

been hired in this position and already working in that role.

Proposed Motions 1. Elimination of the Board of Grants and Bequests (recommended by the

Synodical Committee)

MOTION: In the biennium that follows this Convention, the Executive

Committee, the Synodical Committee and the Board of Grants and

Bequests shall take appropriate measures to transfer management and

oversight of the funds currently managed by the Board of Grants and

Bequests to the Synodical Committee. The Executive Committee of the

Synodical Committee shall have all management and oversight

responsibilities for the funds, and have the authority to accept or disburse

funds as they deem appropriate in general compliance with the existing

policies and purpose of the Board of Grants and Bequests. A report of

any new income or disbursements shall be made to the Synodical

Committee at the first meeting following such activity. Upon completion

of this transfer, the Executive Committee shall draft proposed Constitution

and By-Laws changes to eliminate the Board of Grants and Bequests for

consideration at the 68th Convention of the Unity of the Brethren.

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SECOND: Rev. Mike Groseclose

This is a recommendation from the Synodical Committee. The Board was

set up long ago to manage gifts to the denomination. This group has

been meeting very seldom over last 15-20 years and the board is

nonfunctioning at this point. According to the reports, there is

approximately $450,000 in the accounts.

DISCUSSION:

a. Why was the board originally formed? Proceeds from Dallas church

were put in this account when the church disbanded with the

stipulation that for first 10 years, it could only be used for starting a

church in Dallas. The 10 years have passed now. The vision was this

board would encourage donations, meet with individuals about

giving through wills and estates and gifted to the unity. This didn’t

happen. Currently, the interest is used to pay for youth director

position (approximately $8,000/year).

b. Who will get money? This motion is to allow the money to be

managed by the Executive Committee. The investment firm will

continue to manage the money and will report to the Executive

Committee.

c. How will people give to the Unity? The Executive Committee will

follow the current guidelines.

d. If there is a need, how will people get/ask/access the money?

Synodical and Executive Committee will be the governing entity. It

can be placed under a VP.

e. What could be done with this money? Currently there is no

discussion on how to use this money. Executive Committee will

manage funds and bring in money. Expenditures will be done with

approval by Synodical Committee. If time is short, then the

Executive Committee may make decisions.

f. Rev. Kay Polasek recommended keeping the Board and finding

people who want to do the work.

g. Leroy Parthum was elected chair at the last Convention. When he

tried to investigate the past work of the Board, he was told no one

had met in years and had difficulty finding any information.

PASSED.

2. Adoption of the Unity of the Brethren Catechism revisions

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The Catechism was given to pastors a week ago. The Convention needs

to give some kind of approval.

MOTION: The revisions to the Unity of the Brethren Catechism prepared

and presented to this convention by Pastor’s Koslovsky and Hejl are

conditionally approved as the official version for use by the denomination.

Final approval authority is granted to the Pastor to Pastors following a

thorough review by clergy members of the denomination and any editing

that is deemed appropriate. A written statement from the Pastor to

Pastors and a copy of the approved Catechism shall be presented to the

Synodical Committee at its first meeting following the Catechism’s

approval. The Synodical Committee is directed to publish the revised

Catechism in appropriate formats for distribution to the Unity churches.

SECOND: Debbie Clark (Synodical Committee Lay Member, Crosby)

DISCUSSION:

a. When will churches be able to use? President Kent Laza stated he

was not sure. This is not the absolute final version. The final version

will be available at the Fall Synodical Meeting. Rev. Linda Chandler

said that fall is good time, but it is in great shape. A great job was

done by Revs. Koslovsky and Hejl.

b. Is the final approval being done by Pastor of Pastors a conflict of

interest? Rev. Jimmy Hejl was elected to this position Friday night.

This was not seen as a conflict.

c. Rev. Charles Amos stated the Catechism was discussed at the

Thursday evening pastor’s meeting. Any changes would be minor--

word changes, commas, etc.

d. Rev. Tommy Tallas stated he didn’t like the Pastor of Pastors having

final approval; he preferred to have all pastors approve. The Pastor

of Pastors can bring the decision of all the pastors to the Synodical

Committee. President Kent Laza asked who will give final authority.

The intent of the motion as written is to let Rev. Hejl tell the Synodical

Committee when it is done.

MOTION TO AMEND: by Rev. Tommy Tallas to read, The revisions to the

Unity of the Brethren Catechism prepared and presented to this

convention by Pastors Koslovsky and Hejl are conditionally approved as

the official version for use by the denomination. Final approval authority is

granted to the Pastor to Pastors Synodical Committee following a

thorough review by clergy members of the denomination and any editing

that is deemed appropriate. A written statement from the Pastor to

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Pastors and a copy of the approved Catechism shall be presented to the

Synodical Committee at its first meeting following the Catechism’s

approval. The Synodical Committee is directed to publish the revised

Catechism in appropriate formats for distribution to the Unity churches.

SECOND: Robert Berrie (Synodical Committee Lay Member, Wall).

DISCUSSION: Rev. Dr. Larry Koslovsky asked if the Synodical Committee will

read it. Rev. Kay Polasek stated this is a spiritual work. The Synodical

Committee gives the stamp of approval, but this is something the pastors

should oversee.

VOTE FOR THE AMENDMENT: PASSED.

VOTE ON THE REVISED MOTION: PASSED.

3. Review of the Minister’s Retirement Program

President Kent Laza explained that the work is in place, and the program

is set up. There are still questions about who gets what and how to fund

the program. These questions not answered. The purpose of this motion is

to continue and move forward with this work.

MOTION: The Executive Committee shall appoint a committee to review

the existing guidelines for payments to and disbursements from the

Minister’s Retirement Fund. Recommendations should be made regarding

how funding requirements for churches are determined and what

disbursements are made to each eligible Unity pastor. The

recommendations of this committee shall be reported to the Synodical

Committee by the Fall 2018 meeting and considered for implementation

by the Synodical Committee as soon as practical after that report is

received.

SECOND: Rev. Tommy Tallas.

DISCUSSION: It was clarified that part time pastors are eligible for

retirement, per the 2015 Convention. The complicating issues are how

much and how churches pay when they have a part time pastor. Any

decisions will be retroactive. It was clarified that this committee is

separate from Minister’s Benefit and Retirement Committee. This motion

creates a new committee appointed by the Synodical Committee to

answer these questions.

VOTE FOR THE MOTION: PASSED.

4. Establishment of a Fundraising Program for Improvements at the Hus

School Encampment

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MOTION: The Hus School Board of Trustees, in conjunction with the

Synodical Committee, shall initiate a fundraising program to pay for

planned improvements at the Hus School Encampment. Funds raised

through this effort shall be used for administrative, planning and

construction costs associated with the improvements presented to this

Convention or for other related improvements that are deemed

necessary by the Hus School Board of Trustees. Reports shall be made to

the Synodical Committee on the fundraising activities and on progress

related to the implementation of these improvements.

SECOND: Rev. Curtis Holland.

VOTE ON THE MOTION: PASSED.

5. Restructuring of the membership appointments of three standing Boards.

This restructuring is needed to bring their membership appointments in line

with other standing Boards and provide better participation on these

Boards by minimizing the time commitments of volunteers who serve as a

representative on two or more committees. The Boards affected by this

change are:

• Board of Christian Education

• Hus School Board of Trustees

• Board of Foreign Missions

Membership on the other two standing Boards (Home Missions and

Brethren Journal Business Committee) are already appointed by the

Synodical Committee and have similar wording as being proposed here.

This restructuring involves by-law changes as shown below.

MOTION: The By-Laws of the Unity of the Brethren shall be amended as

follows:

Board of Christian Education

• Article XIII.B.8 (delete)

• Article XIII.B.9 (delete)

• Article XIII.C.2 (changed to read) One member shall be the Youth

Coordinator.

Hus School Board of Trustees

• Article XIV.C.2 (changed to read) The treasurer and six (6) other

members shall be appointed by the Synodical Committee from the

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membership of the Unity of the Brethren, recognizing interest as well

as demographic and geographic distribution.

• Article XIV.C.3 (delete and renumber subsequent paragraphs or

references)

• Appendix A-Article III.B (changed to read) Membership on the

Board of Trustees is as follows: a Chairperson elected by the

Convention, a Treasurer and six other members appointed by the

Synodical Committee.

Board of Foreign Missions

• Article XV.A.1.b (changed to read) Six (6) other members shall be

appointed by the Synodical Committee from the membership of

the Unity of the Brethren, recognizing interest as well as

demographic and geographic distribution.

• Article XV.A.1.c. (delete and renumber subsequent paragraphs or

references)

Tami Laza, Chair of the Christian Board of Education, and Angie Hairrell,

Member of the Christian Board of Education spoke on reasons for this

change. The time commitment created by the need to serve on multiple

boards, some of which may not be the member’s passion, is a problem.

The desire is to populate our boards with people who are passionate

about the mission of that board and want to do the work of the Lord.

SECOND: Dawn Marie Baletka (Delegate, BCS).

DISCUSSION: Rev. Lawrence commented on the number of jobs some

officers have. This will broaden the opportunities for others to serve.

Vote on the Motion: PASSED.

When will it go into effect? Bylaws can be changed immediately.

Constitution cannot. There is no mention of this in the constitution.

6. Provide grants to local churches to help fund upgrades for technology

that is needed to improve their worship experience.

The purpose of this motion to help churches afford the technology,

especially the small churches. The details will be worked out by the

Synodical Committee.

MOTION: The Synodical Committee shall develop guidelines and

implement a matching grant program to assist local churches who are

seeking to enhance their worship experience through the use of

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technology (i.e. A/V equipment, computer systems, Wi-Fi equipment,

internet, etc.). This grant program shall be funded through the Church

Extension Fund and shall terminate 3 years from the time it is established.

SECOND: Tami Laza (Chair of the Board of Christian Education).

DISCUSISON:

a. Will money be evenly distributed all churches? How will it be

handled? The motion proposed a matching grant, so it would be

partially funded by local churches. There will be an application

process. The Synodical Committee will decide who gets grants and

the amount.

b. It was stated that this can help churches in need of a pastor. It was

also stated that this is very forward thinking for the Unity. It was

asked if there would be a limit to the amount requested and if the

money for grants was limited to the Church Extension Fund.

Additionally, small churches may have difficulty matching funds.

c. It was stated that other monies may be used. This would be up to

the Synodical Committee. The Synodical Committee will also

determine the limits of the grants. The matching may not be 50/50.

This would be determined by the Synodical Committee.

d. It was asked where the Church Extension money originated. It was

not known when or where this money began.

e. The thinking behind this motion is to assist, not take the place of the

pastor. It is a way to connect churches on Sunday.

f. Synodical Committee will develop an application.


Motions from the floor MOTION by Rick Weise (Delegate from Wall) to authorize Rev. Dr. Larry

Koslovsky and Rev. Jimmy Hejl to prepare the companion to the revised

Catechism.

SECOND: Rev. Tommy Tallas.


Officer Elections Rev. Mike Groseclose presented the slate of officers prepared by the

Nominating Committee (Angie Hairrell (Chair), Angie Labaj, Mark Olsen,

Rev. Mike Groseclose).

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Rev. Kay Polasek nominated Rev. Joe Emerson for President. He declined the

nomination. Each position was presented and there were no additional

nominations from the floor.

• President: Rev. Dr. Larry Koslovsky

• 1st Vice President: Rev. Mark Sebek

• 2nd Vice President: Kayla Marek

• 3rd Vice President: Rev. Whitney Amos

• Secretary: Angie Hairrell

• Treasurer: Lynette Urbanovsky

• Financial Secretary: Rev. Joe Emerson

• Ministerial Alternate: Rev. Tim Chaplin

• Lay Alternate: Wiley Marx

MOTION by Rev. Linda Chandler to elect the block of nominations as

presented.

SECOND: Grace Labaj (Delegate, Temple).


Election of Board Chairs Board of Christian Education Chair nominee presented: Peggy Hejl

MOTION by Taylor Brinkley (Synodical Committee Member, Ocker) to elect

Peggy Hejl as the Chair of the Board of Christian Education by

acclamation.

SECOND: Rev. Joe Emerson.


Home Missions Board Chair nominee presented: Martha Dove

MOTION by Rev. Joe Emerson to elect Martha Dove as the Home Missions

Board Chair by acclamation.

SECOND: Rev. Linda Chandler.


Foreign Missions Board Chair nominee presented: David Miller.

MOTION by Sid Srnensky (Delegate and Synodical Committee Member,

Taylor) to elect David Miller as the Foreign Missions Board Chair by

acclamation.

SECOND: Rev. Lawrence Junek.


Hus Board of Trustees Chair nominees presented: Dawn Marie Baletka,

Kent Laza. Both addressed the group.

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Discussion: If was asked if they could co-chair. Mark Olsen stated the

bylaws do not allow for co-chairs. It was also suggested the Dawn Marie

Baletka chair the Fundraising Committee because of her experience in

that area. A concern was raised with one person being able to do the job

with the capital campaign—can one person keep the camp going while

overseeing the fundraising and building. It was stated that the Synodical

Committee will put people on these committees to help with the work

load.

RESULTS OF THE VOTE: KENT LAZA ELECTED CHAIR.

Pastoral Relations Committee Two new members need to be elected. Dr. Dusek and Connie Janac

each have two years left.

Two members presented by the nominating committee: Anna Woptika

and Trish Groseclose. Additionally, Dr. Dusek has agreed to serve as the

Chair.

MOTION by Rev. Mark Sebek to elect the people presented by

acclamation.

SECOND: Connie Surovik (Delegate, New Tabor).


Brethren Journal The nominating committee presented Cathleen Schlechte as the Editor of

the Brethren Journal and Ben Polasek as the Business Manager of the

Brethren Journal.

MOTION by Rev. Joe Emerson to elect the people presented by

acclamation.

SECOND: Justin Lewis (Delegate, Snook).


Ministerial Credentialing Board Rev. Jimmy Hejl was elected the Pastor to Pastors. It was proposed that

the three pastors on the Executive Committee would serve on this

Committee (Rev. Sebek, Rev. W. Amos, Rev. Emerson).

There were no nominations from the floor.

MOTION by Rev. Linda Chandler to elect the pastors presented by

acclamation.

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SECOND: Rev. Lawrence Junek.


Board of Grants and Bequests It was proposed by the nominating committee that the members remain

the same during the transition period. The position held by Roger Runnels,

whose term was up, will remain vacant.

MOTION by Roy Janak (Synodical Committee Member, West) to elect the

slate presented to the Board of Grants and Bequests.

SECOND: Sandra Stepan (Synodical Committee Member, Fayetteville).


Other Business 1. President Kent Laza provided a report on the Pastor’s Meeting. Rev.

James Hejl was elected the Pastor to the Pastors.

2. Wall volunteered to host the next convention.

MOTION: Tami Laza (Board of Christian Education Chair) moved to hold

the 68th Convention in Wall.

SECOND: Dorothy Hinson (Delegate and Synodical Committee Member,

Houston).


3. Houston Brethren Church invited all on July 16 to hear the missionaries

speak.

4. President Kent Laza thanked the officers and the Synodical Committee for

their work the previous two years. He asked for thoughts and feedback on

the convention, especially regarding the different format.

5. President Kent Laza announced there would be no session after lunch.

6. President Kent Laza thanked the Temple Brethren Church for hosting this

Convention.

7. MOTION by Dorothy Jean Davis (Delegate, Dime Box) to give the offerings

collect to Temple Brethren Church to cover the Convention Expenses.

SECOND: Betty Parthum (Delegate, Westheimer).


8. MOTION by Roy Janak (Delegate, West) to adjourn.

SECOND: Sandra Stepan (Synodical Committee Member, Fayetteville).


9. President Kent Laza closed with prayer.

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Ordination Service for Rev. Tim Chaplin (10:30-12:00) Attendance at the Ordination Service was 201.

Celebration Luncheon hosted by Temple Brethren Church (12:00-1:00pm)

the 67 biennial convention of the unity of the brethren...

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